Richmond Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things you’ll ever go through, and when a life is suddenly taken due to someone’s carelessness, it can be even harder to accept. While no amount of money can take away your pain, a wrongful death settlement can help you financially during this difficult time.

I’m Ed Atkinson, and I’m here to help you seek the money you need to honor your loved one’s memory and rebuild your life. As a Richmond personal injury lawyer who handles wrongful death claims, I know how to hold at-fault parties accountable.

I operate Atkinson Law on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay me unless I win your case. As a wrongful death lawyer serving Richmond, VA, I can seek the justice and closure your family deserves. Reach out to me today for a risk-free consultation.

Damages I Could Help You Pursue as Your Richmond Wrongful Death Lawyer

As a wrongful death lawyer in Richmond, I am aware of the burdens you may face after the loss of a loved one.

Every case is different, but the following “damages” may be available to you if someone else caused your loved one’s death:

• Funeral and burial costs: Money for funeral and burial expenses can help you honor your loved one without draining your bank account.
  
• Loss of income: This damage aims to replace the financial support your loved one provided for your family before they died.
  
• Medical expenses: This category includes costs for medical treatment before your loved one’s passing, such as hospital bills and treatment expenses.
  
• Loss of services: This means money for the services your loved one contributed, such as childcare or household responsibilities.
  
• Loss of companionship: This damage recognizes the emotional impact of losing the friendship and support your spouse or family member used to provide.
  
• Pain and suffering: The mental suffering you and your family have experienced as a result of your loss.
  
• Punitive damages: In cases where the at-fault party showed extreme disregard for the safety of others, I can seek punitive damages. A deadly drunk driving accident or a crash resulting from drag racing are examples of cases that may qualify for punitive damages.

As your attorney, I will investigate the events surrounding your loved one’s passing and fight for an appropriate amount of money. My fee comes from your final settlement or court award, so you’ll pay nothing out of pocket for my services.

Most cases are settled through negotiations, but as an experienced trial lawyer, I’m always ready to go to court if a settlement agreement cannot be reached.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Virginia?

The Code of Virginia 8.01-53 governs who is eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Virginia. According to this statute, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file a civil lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members.

These relatives may include:

• The surviving spouse, children, or grandchildren of the deceased.
• Any relative who lived in the same household as the deceased and relied on them for financial support (in the absence of surviving spouses, children, or grandchildren).

In cases where there are multiple surviving family members, such as several children, the money is typically distributed equally among them. However, the court may consider various factors when deciding how much each person receives. Working with an attorney like me can be helpful in these situations.

Time Limit for Filing Wrongful Death Claims in Virginia

When pursuing a wrongful death claim in Virginia, it’s important to understand that there’s a time limit. The Code of Virginia § 8.01-244 sets the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims at two years from the date of the accident victim’s passing.

Certain exceptions may apply, but waiting too long can result in losing your opportunity to recover the settlement or court award you are owed.

While two years may seem like a long way off, time is of the essence for other reasons. As time passes, the at-fault party could cover up or destroy evidence, and witnesses can be difficult to locate.

What My Team and I Can Do for Your Case

At Atkinson Law, we realize this might be the most difficult time in your life, and we prioritize your well-being.

Here’s how my team and I can assist you in your wrongful death case:

• Free case evaluation: I offer a no-cost, risk-free consultation where I listen to your story, provide professional legal guidance, and address any concerns you have.
• Thorough investigation: When I take your case, my dedicated team and I carefully examine accident reports and medical records and interview any witnesses to the accident.
• Comprehensive damage assessment: I assess all your losses, ensuring we include both financial and non-financial damages in your settlement demand.
• Insurance negotiations: I handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, striving to secure a fair settlement and shielding you from tactics aimed at reducing your payout.
• Courtroom representation: If necessary, I will file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations runs out and represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to the jury.

If you’ve recently experienced the loss of a loved one, please accept my heartfelt condolences. I know you may be dealing with a lot right now, but don’t wait too long to get started on your claim.

Contact Atkinson Law for a Free Consultation

Atkinson Law is here to provide you with the compassionate representation you need after a tragic accident. As your Richmond wrongful death attorney, I am here to handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on being present with your family and honoring your loved one’s memory.

If we choose to move forward after our first conversation, I’ll conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, using all available evidence to establish liability. I’ll work to build a case that the insurance company can’t ignore and fight for you in court if necessary.

Take the first step toward getting justice for your loved one. Contact my office today to arrange your free case evaluation. I can meet you in the comfort of your home, or we can discuss your case over the phone or the Internet.